Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Stammbuch Klein GB 03
Stammbuch Klein GB 03
Stammbuch Klein GB 03
FAMILY TREE
CONTENTS 3
6. The German Damascus 14. The idea of the Merkel loop 18. The manufactury 42. The Meisterstück 118. The MEM 166. ENGRAVING
7. The formative years 16. Meisterstück and MEM 20. The essence of the manufactory 44. OVER-AND-UNDER GUNS 122. K class Single shot rifles
170. WOOD CLASSES
8. Between the wars 22. More than just pure handwork 46. Over-and-under guns 300 Series 126. Single shot rifle K3
9. War and the postwar period 23. From one-of-a-kind to series 50. Over-and-under shotgun 128. Karpatenbüchse K4
10. The German Democratic Republic – production 52. Over-and-under combination 130. B class Over-and-under guns
and Reunification 24. From the idea to the product Over-and-under double rifle 134. Over-and-under combination B3/B4
11. The technological breakthrough 25. Quality – at minus 20 degrees 54. Over-and-under guns 2000 Series 138. Bergstutzen B4
12. Merkel today 26. Making a Meisterstück 58. Over-and-under shotguns 140. Over-and-under double rifle B3
28. High-grade parts 66. Over-and-under combination 146. SINGLE BARREL RIFLES
29. The modern wire cutter 67. Over-and-under double rifles 148. Semiautomatic S1
30. CNC Processing 68. SIDE-BY-SIDE GUNS 156. Bolt action KR1
31. The art of the barrel maker 70. Side-by-side shotguns
32. The barrel making 82. Side-by-side combination
34. Zero T assembly 84. Side-by-side rifles
35. The brilliance of wood 96. ‘Safari’ side-by-side rifles
36. The art of the engraver 106. DRILLINGS
37. Colour case hardening 108. Drilling
38. Master of surfaces 114. Double rifle drilling
39. Man with fine feeling 116. Bergstutzen drilling
40. Precise shot
41. The final inspection
EDITORIAL
EDITORIAL
A family tree always makes a state- They have almost completely done manufactory in Suhl. Together with the
ment. When you look at a family tree away with their gunsmithing traditions independent Suhl master gunsmiths,
you remember your forefathers – and and turned to industrial manufacturing we cultivate the knowledge and the
order your future at the same time. processes – which was unavoidable in skills which have accumulated since
Merkel has done both in recent years, the market economy system. They have 1490 – and make hunting guns out of it.
has reclaimed the legend of the city of undoubtedly developed outstanding
Suhl. products; but at what price? MEM and Meisterstück are the two
poles of the Merkel hunt. They have
The Merkel manufactory is unique Merkel stayed. And, now situated in developed from the love of a pastime
among its type in the world. Without the middle of Germany, has used the which has always been part of human
descending into nostalgia for the old last decade to re-engineer its product life. And from a totally innate sense of
East Germany, it is thanks to the GDR range, without changing its aesthetic- aesthetic.
that we have this unique combination functional value. And out of Suhl exper-
of high-tech forging and gunsmithing tise Merkel has given birth to a new gun
workshops. It was as if a cheese cloth category: MEM.
had been cast over the country be-
tween 1949 and 1990. It kept the old What Merkel can offer today is unique
traditions fresh. The situation was not in the world. To the delight and the
exclusive to Merkel – but only in a few benefit of hunters all around the world,
industrial branches did this prove to be we can produce handmade master-
an opportunity; to be able to continue pieces, which combine centuries old
working for 40 years, free from econom- expertise with artistic handcraft and
ic forces and virtually no technological cutting-edge manufacturing tech-
pressure. niques. Or prototypes, which brilliantly
combine Suhl principles and systems
In these four decades we retained and exemplify hunting gun culture of
what was lost elsewhere. Many Suhl the highest technological level – we call
gunsmakers left the region after the war these hunting guns MEM. Olaf Sauer
and were re-established in West Germany. Merkel is the last great hunting gun Managing Director of the Merkel company.
HISTORY HISTORY
There are regions and cities that culti- the advantages of the location and set- Damascus gunsmiths. They elevated The industrial revolution made Germany company “for the purpose of joint man- turned some gunmakers into indus-
vate a legacy: mechanical watches in tled here. At the time guns for defence engraving and manufacturing to high the third largest industrial nation in ufacture of firearms and other articles.” trial enterprises, the Merkel workforce
Glashütte, lace in Brussels, red wine in and protection were produced. Since art in the Arabian world. the world. And in Suhl the craftman’s On 1st September 1898 the company hardly ever rose above 350 employees
Bordeaux. Suhl’s legacy is guns – since the Middle Ages Suhl has been looked workshops turned into manufactories started work in the second district. This during the war. Instead, the export-ori-
1490 according to the latest findings. upon as the gunmaking city of Europe. In Suhl there was always a demarcation and later into gun factories. The Mer- was the start of a development that ented company twice lost its important
And the knowledge of making fine between military production and hunt- kel brothers wanted to be part of the is remarkable even in the gunmaking foreign markets.
guns is deeply rooted in the collective Nevertheless the arts and crafts were ing guns. The “fine gun” remained the unprecedented transformation of the town of Suhl.
memory of the people of this region. not neglected in Suhl: the rifles were preserve of hunting – richly adorned national economy at the turn of the From the outset the Merkels pinned
engraved on all sides and beautifully and elegantly designed. 19th Century. During the formative years of the their hopes on innovation. The Bock
The old city of Suhl is the gateway to finished. The city soon earned the nick- company the manufacture of hunting, over-and-under gun with the two bar-
the Thuringian Forest. Iron ore and the name “German Damascus” – the guns Albert Oskar, Gebhard and Karl Paul sporting and luxury guns was booming rels lying upon one another originates
wood used to fire the ironworks are eas- were richly decorated. The people of Merkel came from a long line of engrav- in the old gunmaking town. The me- from Suhl, and Merkel registered the
ily accessible here. Legend has it that Suhl are proud of this name, because it ers, stock makers and gunsmiths – and chanical design of these guns was more “Bock” as a trademark. Merkel revolu-
gunsmiths from Nuremberg recognised brings to mind the great tradition of the a family with many children. All eleven elaborate and technically variable than tionised sporting shooting and hunting
sons of the family found their way into military rifles. Merkel was committed with these rifles.
the gunmaking trade. Albert Oskar and to the “fine gun” at all times; even in
Gebhard Merkel were master gunsmiths. wartime it was never more than a parts
Karl Paul Merkel followed as a master supplier for military production. While
stock maker – they founded a trading the two great wars of the 20th Century
From a business point of view, the at the World Exhibition in Paris for its Before the start of Second World War By the end of 1945 hunting guns were
First World War was a huge setback range of hunting rifles. The World the company ran its own sales offices in being manufactured again; by 1947
for Merkel. Merkelesque aesthetic is Exhibition, which was held under the many countries around the world. Mer- almost 700 rifles had been sent to
not sought after on the battlefield. The motto “Art and technology applied in kel’s sales network spread from Argen- Eastern Europe as reparation payments.
company – renowned for luxury and modern life”, honoured the aesthetic tina to Bessarabia to France, Greece, Merkel developed into a showcase
perfectly balanced hunting rifles – lost of the Merkel product range. Norway, Rumania, Spain and the USA. company of the German Democratic
many foreign markets. Nevertheless, This network was again broken up by Republic.
shortly after the war, Merkel rifles were In 1938 the second generation as- the Second World War.
again being exported to 28 countries sumed office: Ernst Merkel together The dispossession of the founding fami-
around the world, although the compa- with the adept businessman Adolf Hunting guns played a subordinate role lies followed in 1948 – under disastrous
ny did not fully recover from the conse- Schade, son-in-law of Karl-Paul Mer- in the war production from 1939. Merkel conditions, the descendants of the
quences of the war until 1924. In 1931 kel, took over the management of the became a parts supplier for carburettor Merkels lost everything to Socialism;
Merkel registered a trademark: from company. The Grand Prix boosted the engines, carbines and rangefinders – and everything the brothers has built up and
now on the rights to the term “Bock” export business. The company’s order the number of employees rose to 350 the second generation had developed.
(over-and-under) for hunting and sport- books include the names of crowned in peak periods. Even in the anti-training In 1952 the state-owned company
ing rifles were reserved for Merkel. heads of state, diplomats, mahara- atmosphere of wartime Germany, the again had 200 employees manufactur-
jahs and industrial magnates. Famous Merkel company took the initiative to ing hunting guns. The company was
The ingenious gun designer Gebhard big game hunters and explorers also restructure the job specifications of the integrated into a state combine, but
Merkel died in 1933. He did not have ordered their rifles from Merkel in Suhl. gunmaking trades, thereby ensuring the the brand and the products remained
the opportunity to witness one of the Even the world boxing champion Max continuation of handcrafted gunmaking. independent.
company’s greatest triumphs. In 1937 Schmeling favoured hunting rifles made
Merkel was awarded the “Grand Prix” by Merkel The war ended in Suhl on 3 April 1945 In 1953 the GDR government presented
at 8.30 in the morning – of all the factories Merkel hunting rifles to the two most
in the city, only Merkel was to escape dis- powerful men on earth at that time,
mantlement. The good reputation of the Dwight D. Eisenhower and Nikita S.
precious hunting guns spared Merkel Chruschtschow. And in 1963 the first
2 this fate – the machine workshops, which man in space, the cosmonaut Juri
Advertisement with the “Grand Prix” were hi-tech for the time, were kept in Gagarin, was honoured with a Merkel 3
from the 1937 World Exhibition. Suhl. Drilling. Postwar production at Merkel.
HISTORY
HISTORY HISTORY
– AND REUNIFICATION
Uncertain ownership status accompa- crafted character of their rifles. As early
nied Merkel to the end of the millen- as the mid 1990s, the complete range
The socialist workers‘ and farmers‘ state Raña, proclaimed: “I think these are the
nium – then the traditional brand found of Merkel hunting guns underwent
cultivated its export hit. In the 1970s a most perfect hunting rifles in the world.”
its feet again. Investors provided the careful reengineering. Where technical
range of luxury guns was developed and He thought the Merkel over-and-under
backing which laid the foundations for advancement increased the safety of
sold around the world. The gun card shotgun to be, “the queen of hunting
new products and the continuation of the riflemen, it was used. Where state-
archives include the names of illustrious rifles“. And he should know – not only
the Suhl gunmaking tradition. of-the-art technology improved the
personalities such as Gamal Abdel Nasser, did Vázquez Raña hold the highest sports
precision and prolonged the service life
Josip Brosz Tito and Mao Tse Tung. shooting office in the world, he was also
At the time of the change it became of a rifle, it was applied.
Even Franz Josef Strauß, the Bavarian world famous as a practicing trick shot
clear that there would be no future
Minister President and enthusiastic hunter, artist. Between 1954 and 1989 sporting
without maintaining the values of the The visual appearance of a Merkel 303
ordered his rifles from Suhl. Between shooters using Merkel rifles won 45 titles
past. Industrial precision cannot exist made in 1924 differs only in details
1945 and 1987, production of Merkel at world and European championships.
without handcraft skills. Merkel was from a modern 303 over-and-under
over-and-under guns alone reached
always and remains today a major pro- shotgun. And in 1924, as in 2008, these
150,000. The GDR celebrated the success In 1989 the German Democratic Repub-
moter of the different professions of the wonderful hunting guns were at the cut-
of Merkel rifles with a set of special lic came to end – the revolution came
gunmaking art – because the company ting edge of gun technology.
postage stamps. from below. It was unprecedented in its
knows, needs and fosters its roots and
courageousness and its bloodlessness.
skills. Merkel is very aware of the herit- From the outset the Merkel brand was
With hunting and sporting gun produc- With the slogan “We are the nation”,
age of Suhl gunmaking. characterised by the work of specially
tion flourishing after the war, Suhl the people of the GDR freed themselves
trained craftsmen; by employees who
became an important sports shooting from the ruling powers.
The last great manufacturer of the old know how to make a gunlock with only
centre. Around 100,000 visitors came to
gunmaking town still sees itself as a simple tools and without machines. And
Thuringia for the world championships Reunification was accompanied by
manufactory in the image of the Merkel this, although they know how to handle
in 1986. For a few days the city with a considerable turmoil – many jobs were
brothers. The Merkels were children of computer-controlled machines and the
long tradition of making firearms was lost in Suhl. Nevertheless, the Suhl
the Industrial Revolution – and under- most up-to-date surface finishing sys-
the undisputed centre of world shoot- combine remained the largest producer
stood how to adapt to these enormous tems. Technology by tradition.
ing sports. In his enthusiasm for the of hunting guns in Europe. This is where
leaps in technology. Despite the ma-
Merkel product range, the Mexican the coveted Merkel rifles were manufac-
4 chinery, which was hi-tech at the time,
president of the International Shooting tured – however, they were still at the
Merkel BDF 303ET I BDF 203ES they preserved the individual and hand- Craftsmanship: hand soldered barrels.
Sport Federation, Olegario Vázquez technical level of the 1950s.
HISTORY
HISTORY
MERKEL TODAY 13
Merkel‘s only production site is in Suhl the long tradition of Suhl gunsmithing. them down and develop them further.
– we view the location as a guarantee Merkel is one of the very few factories For example, we continue to practice
of quality that is recognised in many that can manufacture both modern the time-consuming process of brush
countries around the world. The Suhl firearms and handcrafted hunting guns. oxidisation because it provides extra
manufactory is an exceptional combina- No matter which category a customer quality for our customers.
tion of hunting gun manufacturing and chooses, a Merkel carries the Suhl
high-tech forging. Merkel combines genes: reverence to and the heritage of
the traditional manufacturing methods the German Damascus. And this has its
of handcrafted hunting guns with the own basic principles.
highest standards of quality and safety
– all achieved in what is, for this day MERKEL TOP-DOWN: Merkel
and age, an unusually deep in-house guns offer the customer the power
range of manufacture, from cold forged reserves of the unique Merkel top-down
barrels to hand engraving. With every principle. This means that the highest Merkel ‘Taube’ over-and-under combination rifle/shotgun from the year 1927.
part of a Merkel gun, careful consid- calibre of every gun class defines the
eration is given to whether, from the breech of all the underlying versions.
customer’s point of view, it should be The breech of the Africa side-by-side
handmade or machine produced. rifle thus sets the standard for all the
other side-by-side guns.
Today Merkel exports to more than
40 countries all over the world and has STEEL ON STEEL: With Merkel
close to 200 employees – each one a locking mechanisms, the principle
highly qualified specialist. They often applies that steel is always locked on
come from families that have worked in steel.
the gunmaking trade for generations.
Merkel B4 over-and-under combination rifle/shotgun from the year 2008.
They bring to us the manufacturing HANDED-DOWN QUALITY: We
skills and expertise to find unusual solu- have mastered the traditional manu-
tions. Merkel employees define them- facturing methods, which even today
selves and their work on the basis of produce unequalled quality – we hand
PHILOSOPHY
PHILOSOPHY
The strip of the saxonian mathemati- its length. Instead of falling into two
cian and topologist, August Ferdinand parts, the result was one long strip. Mö-
Möbius, symbolises Merkel loop. bius loaned his insight to Merkel. The
Möbius was a contemporary of the world of Merkel hunting guns equates
Merkel brothers. In 1858 Möbius stuck to that of the strip twisted to make a
together the two ends of a paper strip loop – the Merkel loop that apparently
that had been turned through 180 has two sides (Meisterstück and MEM),
degrees and determined that this strip but which in fact only has one surface
could not be cut into two strips along (Suhl).
At Merkel the world of hunting guns is This first Meisterstück – in its time a Merkel Engineered Manufacturing MEISTERSTÜCK: Upon request: hand-
divided into two. Traditional, handcraft- technologically groundbreaking drilling – high-tech in combination with engi- cut checkering (left).
ed works of art can be found here as – is the godfather of the whole class of neering expertise and Suhl gunmaking MEM: A laser beam cuts the checker-
well as modern hunting guns produced traditional hunting rifles that are hand- know-how. Every MEM from Merkel is ing into a stock (right).
by contemporary methods. Merkel is made in our manufactory. based on the knowledge and the hunt-
one of the few manufacturers in the ing cultural genes of the old gunmaking
world that can produce both catego- It in its chequered history, the gun- town, realised with state-of-the-art tech-
ries. On the one hand the Meisterstück, making town of Suhl has always been nology and the most modern material.
the largely handcrafted rifle, manufac- able to draw its strength and ideas for
tured according to concepts that have new products from the rich heritage of It is our gunmakers, the guardians of
applied in the old gunmaking town of firearms expertise of the region. This is Meisterstück and MEM guns, who make
Suhl for centuries. The name of these symbolised by the MEM hunting gun sure that no soulless industrial products
icons of handmade guns is inspired category. These three letters are double leave the Merkel manufactory.
Gebhard Merkel’s original drilling 1.4, coded: on the one hand the mem is the
which was named the “Meisterstück”. art term for the culture gene – i.e. the
hereditary aspects of cultural identity.
On the other hand, MEM stands for
MEISTERSTÜCK:
303E over-and-under shotgun
MEM:
SR1 semiautomatic rifle
MANUFACTORY
MANUFACTORY 19
MANUFACTORY
MANUFACTORY
The term “manufactory” originates The Merkels were children of the In- their high proportion of machine work, same care as Meisterstücke – very often sounds overstated) the pride of those An old Merkel design drawing of
from the time the Merkel brothers dustrial Revolution – but they were also are nevertheless individually manufac- on the same machines and by the same that manufacture them. This applies a side-by-side shotgun on goatskin parch-
founded their company. From the craftsmen. And thus they knew how to tured products, in which gunmaker’s people. just as much to a modern Merkel rifle of ment. The material is pieced together and
beginning, the manufactory combined combine machine work and handwork skills are paired with engineering The manufactory is a living organism the MEM category as to a traditionally sewn – it depicts a rifle on a scale of 1:1.
traditional manual skills with modern most effectively. Merkel has preserved technology. They are manufactured in and the finished goods are products of manufactured Meisterstück.
industrial production methods. this knowledge. Even MEM rifles, with the same self-conception and with the the experience, the skill and (even if it
MANUFACTORY
MANUFACTORY MANUFACTORY
PRODUCTION
Merkel was always a promoter of the most the same precision – for example,
gunmaking handcraft – that is still the the guides of the bottom bites of break The wide range of in-house produc- stretches from traditional hunting rifles
case today. And of course we hold in open guns are made this way. tion is typical of Merkel manufacturing. – our Meisterstücks – right through
high regard purely handmade hunting All key processes are carried out in to semiautomatic rifles of the MEM
guns, made from solid metal, that do Computer-controlled 5-axis milling our manufactory. Merkel makes all the category. Or from the massive Africa
not use any industrially produced parts. centres work with tolerances from essential components of a gun itself: side-by-side rifle to the modern bolt
But we also know the technological +/- 0.01 millimetres – these are the barrels, stocks, lock components, lock- action rifle.
limits of these guns. values required for the manufacture of ing mechanism parts and barrel sets.
mechanical wristwatches. We use them Assembly, ballistic testing and final One example: in our manufactory we
Merkel manufacturing goes one step for processing steel or duralumin parts inspection – we only rely on ourselves combine the classical handcraft of the
beyond the boundaries of handwork. as well as for wood. Thanks to CNC to carry out these processes. colour case hardening of a side-by-side
Shotgun barrels in the production line.
Every Merkel MEM and every Merkel milling we produce stocks with perfectly shotgun receiver with scientific methods
Meisterstück is the result of a process flush joints to the steel parts of the bar- There are product groups where Merkel of material and surface research. With
that compliments the traditional hand- rel and receiver. makes no more than a single hunting three-dimensional computer simulations
crafts with the most up-to-date tools, if gun per year. There are others where or controlled shooting with the aid of
this benefits the product and the cus- That such precision parts are subse- several thousand units are produced. high-speed cameras, we draw nearer to
tomer. Innovation is not an empty cliché quently fitted by hand or finished with This flexibility in production quantities is the ideal rifle. According to the Merkel
for us; it has been the mainspring of our a traditional coating is no contradiction characteristic of Merkel manufacturing. definition, the ultimate aim of the ideal
success since the very beginning. for us. It all goes to improve the quality At the request of a customer we can rifle combines functional aesthetic, high
of the finished product. Our employees offer highly individualised hunting guns precision, the highest quality and a
Electrical discharge machining and the have all learned the classical gunsmith’s – right down to the single item. At the service life that will last for generations.
CNC production of workpieces are craft – and refined it with knowledge of same time we produce Meisterstücks
part of this modern process, that helps high-tech production processes. This is in series, where this series production Even if they are distinguished by a
produce time-honoured Merkel hunting exactly where Merkel offers more. seemed infeasible before the turn of perfect finish and enjoy great popularity
rifles or modern MEM rifles of the high- the millennium. among collectors, our rifles are all made
est quality. Electroerosive wire-cutting for contemporary hunting. And even if
works with minimum tolerances in a There is hardly another hunting gun we work with cutting-edge technology,
range of 0.005 to 0.01 millimetres. Die manufacturer in the world that covers every Merkel rifle remains an individual
sinking produces sharp edges with al- Unique, handmade: white 303 action. such an extensive product range. This one-of-a-kind.
MANUFACTORY
MANUFACTORY MANUFACTORY
Merkel employees discuss the require- Once the requirements profile is Quality is a word that’s often used. It testing of individual parts on the site
ments profile of a new hunting gun in defined, the work begins with a speci- becomes much clearer if you imagine of their production, permanent error
informal working groups which include fications sheet and the development the hunt at minus 20 degrees. A prime detection and the quickest possible
gunsmiths, engineers and hunters. The assignment. The aesthetic must keep wild boar, 60 meters shooting distance, corrective action.
first question is always, what should it pace with the functionality. That is why the best light for shooting and a ghostly
be able to do? The decisive impulse of- the Merkel development team is backed silence over the hunting ground. Now We are one of the few manufacturers of
ten comes from the market. A company up by a team of designers from the it’s all down to you; and so that even hunting guns that make all the impor-
that exports to over 40 countries in the outset. This enables the technology in this bleak hunting ground you can tant components ourselves – including
world knows that there is no such thing and form to grow together – in the depend on your Merkel, we have been the barrels. We only purchase supply
as “the hunt”. same way that traditional hunting guns thinking far ahead. parts from companies who have com-
come into being. mitted to our quality code. We verify
Quality with certificate.
Different hunting cultures, gun legislation The Merkel quality management system their products in the incoming goods
and hunting laws, changes in hunting The development process is an inter- MQM goes far beyond the require- department on the basis of internation-
conditions and game population as well as play of structured, unstructured and ments of ISO 9001. MQM is a process ally valid statistical procedures.
hunting fashion influence which gun sells in creative components – one could also oriented, holistic quality management
which market – and which does not. In dis- simply call it creativity. This can take system for all Meisterstück and MEM During and after assembly we test every
cussion groups with importers, dealers and several years. But the time is well in- rifles. Quality is primarily a question of single manufactured gun for function,
hunters, Merkel is continually discussing vested: at the end of the day a hunting perfect planning and organisation. precision, handling, operability, ap-
what the market needs – and how Mer- gun should emerge that lasts a lifetime pearance and finish; these tests go far
kel can cover and serve this demand. and is still functional even after 50 or At Merkel the developers think far into beyond the requirements of the legal
100 years. That’s how we see sustain- the future. They define load limits and regulations. Merkel has a field office of
Merkel manufacturing is also subject to ability: a rifle that our grandchildren will extreme situations – and their effect on the State Proof House in the factory –
certain basic principles: to apply the best be able to enjoy. every single component of the gun. The proof of the confidence and status of
possible technology for the respective production process and the materials our manufactory. No hunting gun leaves
purpose and product, to lock steel against are derived from this index of maximum the manufactory without the state seal.
steel, to guarantee the Merkel top-down demands. All this for that single moment, because
principle and to always find the optimal we know: quality is quality at minus 20
combination of handcraft and machine These findings form the basis of MQM. degrees.
production. Design studies of a Merkel SR1. This includes process accompanying SR1 continuous firing test with certificate.
MANUFACTORY
MANUFACTORY
Parts store:
Forearm and
buttstock parts Barrel maker: NC production: Action maker: State firing test: Action maker: Hardening: Action maker: Stock maker: Action maker: Test firer: Stock maker:
Making the Barrel set Adjust breech with overpres- Assembly and Heat treatment Assembly Stock working as repairer Precision Disassembly
Barrel set parts
barrel set processing block and first sure disassembly shooting
Breech block and assembly
trigger parts
The finest recipes require the best When a shot is fired, a bite plate on the The stage where the mechanical computer controlled die-sink EDM and
ingredients. We make no differentiation receiver absorbs the thrust load – and processing of difficult to machine mate- wire-cut EDM. With wire-cut EDM a very
when it comes to manufacturing parts. must close perfectly and run smoothly. rials reaches its limits is the stage where fine brass live wire cuts parts from the
The components of our hunting rifles Or it is a question of materials that have electrical discharge machining (EDM) workpiece in a non-conductive fluid
are all made to the same quality criteria special properties: V-springs of spring comes into play. We use this technolo- (dielectric). Temperatures from 1,000
and often from the same materials – no steel, which accelerate the hammer with gy to make traditional rifle parts such as to 5,000 °C are reached in a discharge
matter whether they are for MEM or unequalled vehemence. cocking rods, set triggers and auxiliary channel, which lead to melting and
Meisterstück rifles. The intended use levers for our Meisterstücks. evaporation of the material particles.
and demands placed on the guns de- The basic manufacturing of every part The achievable manufacturing toler-
termine which material is used and how follows its own laws and requires spe- Many MEM parts are also produced ances are in the micrometer range.
it is processed. cific expertise. There is one essential in this way. A major advantage of the
Ejector hammers for side-by-side guns. Computer controlled wire-cut EDM.
difference in the dimensional tolerances electro-erosive processing is the very With die-sink EDM, sparks are gener-
A hunting gun consists of 130 compo- of the parts of Merkel’s two manufac- high level of dimensional accuracy; ated via a conducting tool (electrode)
nent parts – and we manufacture every tured gun categories: Meisterstück even extremely hard materials such as onto the workpiece to be processed.
important part in our Suhl manufactory. parts are made to a required oversize, hardened steel, titanium or hard metal These sparks remove tiny particles of
The whole is more than the sum of its to allow more play when they are fitted can be processed. It is also possible to material. The electrode is programmed
parts – but we know that the whole and aligned to each other. MEM parts produce edge-free edges and sharp- with the negative form of the workpiece
comes down to every part. It is often a at made to exactly defined manufactur- edged geometric shapes. The erosive surface to be created.
matter of a hundredth of a millimetre. ing tolerances. processes used by Merkel are
The term CNC “computer numerical When the Merkel brothers founded uct. They breath life into the barrel set
control” – describes a world in which their company in 1898, the ingenious with skilled hands and centuries of Suhl
lathes and milling machines are control- gunsmith Gebhard Merkel brought an experience.
led by computer programs. The high idea into the partnership. It concerned
level of investment in production with an innovative technology for solder- Tension-free and elegant, stable but
multi-axis machining centres and in ing gun barrel sets – which was later aesthetically slim and light – these con-
highly qualified staff is rewarded with patented. trary objectives can only be achieved
the highest quality. with barrel sets soldered in this way.
According to this process, neither ex- The secret of Merkel precision is the
In the Merkel manufactory, this oc- clusively hard solder nor exclusively soft experience of the employees in assem-
casionally leads to apparently bizarre solder should be used, but a combina- bling the barrels. Despite high manu-
combinations of this technology and tion of both. However, and this is the facturing precision, the components
the gunmaking handcraft. Once the art of the barrel maker, the required require caliber-specific fine tuning by
barrel maker has constructed and temperatures must not be allowed hand, to ensure the hunting rifle hits
justified his barrel set with tongs and to damage the structure of the mate- the target precisely. The intersection of
torch, solder and wire, this handmade rial. Hard solder joints guarantee the the barrels, that point where the barrel
semi-finished part is clamped onto the highest stability, where locking forces axes of multi-barrel hunting rifles meet,
high-tech CNC machines. For example, have to be absorbed. And soft solder is individually determined according to
the computer controlled milling centre improves the heat dissipation through the respective caliber combinations.
processes the hooks of the barrel set of its high level of flexibility. Our barrel
break open gun, which later bind the makers say: the barrel can breathe – so
barrels and the action into one part. it has room to expand. This terminology
Thus a single unit comes into being that also indicates the understanding that
can withstand the enormous pressure our staff members have of their prod-
of a gunpowder explosion – with an
unparalleled combination of handcraft
intuition and computer precision.
Handwork meets high-tech: the forged barrel is clamped in the CNC milling machine. Soft soldering the sight rail.
MANUFACTORY
MANUFACTORY
BARREL MAKING 33
Traditionally manufactured hunting The stock is an essential functional before experienced craftsmen get to
guns – Merkel Meisterstücks – are element of a rifle – but the optical and work on the stock. Iron and wood are
assembled twice. The first time, the haptic qualities must also be right. To perfectly aligned by hand. This can
“white fitter” assembles the steel parts. achieve this Merkel uses the best wal- sometimes takes several hours.
These are white parts, i.e. tempered nut woods of each category.
parts with untreated surfaces. These Then comes the stock finish: the sur-
individual parts have been made to It is not only the task of the stock to faces of the stock woods are perfected.
a certain tolerance in the prefabrica- provide the rifleman with a supporting The stock is watered and ground and
tion stage – now the white fitter makes structure for shoulder, cheek and hands. the process repeated until open pores
fine adjustments by hand and aligns The butt stock also absorbs the repul- are no longer visible. The stock can
the tolerances to each other. Merkel sion power of the shot. The dimensions then be finished in either silk-matt,
Meisterstücks are assembled without and the design of the stock affect the gloss or pore-filled. This is followed by
tolerances: this is what “Zero T” stands precision, appearance and the aesthet- oiling, which accentuates the finest nu-
for. A fully functional hunting rifle is as- ics of the rifle – as well as its ergonom- ances of the grain.
sembled; only to be dismantled again, ics.
surface treated and further processed. Finally, the checkering is cut by hand or
It is a question of bringing the cast, with a laser beam; this enhances both
drop, length of the stock wrist and the the grip and the elegance of the stock.
stock into equilibrium. This requires
great skill on the part of the stock
maker. The functional dimensions are
transferred to the unprocessed stock by
means of the state-of-the-art machines
The perfect fit: a Drilling action assembled without tolerances. Checkering – cut by hand.
MANUFACTORY
MANUFACTORY MANUFACTORY
HARDENING
The engraver’s work on the hunting gun in his trade. Engravers pass through a
is where art and handcraft overlap. Mer- classical apprenticeship and then many
created on steel surfaces with the aid
kel engravers have fashioned hundreds years of vocational adjustment, until
of leather carbon. The purely empirical
of classical patterns and found thou- they are ready for all-round deployment
experience of Suhl colour case harden-
sands of individual solutions since the in the manufactory. Nevertheless, every
ing has been handed down from ge-
company was founded. engraver is a specialist in his motifs –
neration to generation. Even today, the
there are masters of arabesque patterns
chemical and physical processes of
The Suhl nickname “German Damas- with stylised tendrils and masters of
colour case hardening have not been
cus” is both a claim and an obligation animal motifs. They work on a rotating
completely researched. The wide range
of Merkel engravers. The artistry of its vice. With graver, chisel and hammer
of influencing factors make every result
engravers is one of the great strengths they decorate the metal parts of the
unique.
of the Merkel manufactory. The animal Merkel rifles with delicate filigree work.
or the nature motif on the hunting gun
With colour case hardening, a steel
is a piece of hunting culture – it relates The artistry of the decoration is
surface is hardened by enrichment with
directly to the archaic cave drawings of achieved by a combination of colour
carbon. The play of colours ranges from
the original hunters. It is both deco- case hardening, engraving, stock cut-
blue to brown and yellow to different
ration and an invocation of hunting ting and inlay work, right through to the
shads of red. The steel surface is heat
fortune. It also gives expression to the hand engraved signature.
treated: leather carbon releases tannic
magic of the hunt.
acid, which produces the individual
colours.
Merkel employs more than 15 engrav-
ers – each and every one a specialist
Merkel leather carbon for colour case
hardening is produced according to an
old formula – a modern paint coating of
the resultant fine surfaces offers addi-
tional corrosion protection and assures
the finished surface lasts. This tradition
is permanent.
Receiver engraving with fantasy foliage. Colour case hardening with the gunsmith – certified Suhl production.
MANUFACTORY
MANUFACTORY MANUFACTORY
FEELING
It is the surfaces that make for the Brush oxidisation: these are the pots,
fascination of a Merkel hunting gun. crucibles, standard containers filled
The name “black fitter” is somewhat
Traditionally, a range of professions with different fluids, which – if applied
misleading. He is the gunsmith for
are engaged in producing immaculate correctly – impart a fine surface to the
precision work. He fits together compo-
finishes in the Suhl manufactory. hunting guns.
nents that have undergone diverse fin-
ishing processes and acquired perfect
The skilled burnishers with their acute Our masters of blueing keep their cards
surfaces. In the process he smoothes
sense for hard steel ensure the perfect close to their chests. For the outsider it
out any possible distortions of the ma-
surface. Burnishing is hard graft – but is also hard to comprehend this se-
terial which occurred during hardening.
what counts is the result. There is no quence of over 30 work steps that takes
alternative to the quality of the hand- almost a whole working week. The
In the meantime the barrel set has
work – particularly with Meisterstücks. brushwork is done at a defined mois-
been matt coated, burnished, then
After burnishing, the metal surface is ture level. And the steels are given time
engraved and blued. The receiver and
sensitive and short-lived. to achieve a specified level of oxidisa-
many small parts have been burnished
tion. This is where the expert hand
and engraved, nitrified or colour case
Now it’s the turn of the masters of blue- ensures a perfect finish. The masters of
hardened. Now all the parts are fitted
ing: separate parts are heat blued. But blueing invest more than eight hours
together. The black fitter is at the end
the high art is the brush oxidisation. handwork in every Merkel Meisterstück.
of a process which is based on quality,
This may be somewhat old fashioned
perfection and durable products. He
and time-consuming, but it’s worth it to But the time is well invested in a hunt-
proudly holds what the manufactory has
us to achieve the results of the gun- ing gun made for generations and
produced.
metal gloss on the steel parts of our protected by a permanent black-oxide
Meisterstücks. Conventional heat blue- finish.
ing of the barrel would place a strain
on the soft solder joints on the Meister-
stück barrel set and possibly give rise to
symptoms of corrosion.
Hot baths, secret formulas. The black fitter tensions the V-spring of the sidelock.
MANUFACTORY
MANUFACTORY MANUFACTORY
INSPECTION
The finishing touch to make a Merkel
hunting gun a precision instrument, is
At the final inspection the new hunting
the test firing at the manufactory shoot-
gun is examined from various points
ing range. Our specialists test the gun
of view: Two hearts are beating in the
using an open sight at 50 metres or
breast of the inspector. The eyes of the
with a with a scope at 75 or 100 me-
gunmaker see the components and
tres. Here the reference ammunition of
functionality of the rifle. He opens the
well-known manufacturers is used, the
breech, checks the action, function and
point of impact corrected and the shot
fit of all the parts of the gun. Nothing
precision defined.
escapes this stringent examination.
Then the new gun is observed “through
When test-firing with the scope, the
the customer’s eyes”. Nothing should
height and side adjusters are exactly
spoil the customer’s enjoyment of the
positioned. The result is precise shot
new hunting rifle, or detract from the
grouping. These are electronically
aesthetic of the gun. “Test the rifle as
documented and archived – a form of
if you were going to buy it yourself,”
birth certificate and a certification of
is the guiding principle that makes for
precision for every Merkel gun. The test
satisfied hunters or sports shooters.
firing is a celebratory moment – now
the Merkel rifles and shotguns are ready
for use in the hunting ground or on the
shooting range.
Precise test firing at 100 metres distance. Opening the masterpiece: the inside of the receiver fulfils the promise of the outside.
MEISTERSTÜCK
MEISTERSTÜCK 43
This is a hunting gun comprising more than one hundred components – but it is
not an industrial product. It is manufactured according to old concepts with a great
deal of handcraft – nevertheless, contemporary technology makes the Meisterstück
a modern gun. It is made to last for generations – a Merkel Meisterstück.
MEISTERSTÜCK
OVER-AND-UNDER GUNS 45
OVER-AND-UNDER GUNS
Many of the specifications from the formative years still apply today: Extract from a Merkel catalogue of the 1930s. OVER-AND-UNDER OVER-AND-UNDER OVER-AND-UNDER BERGSTUTZEN
SHOTGUN COMBINATION GUN EXPRESS RIFLE
MEISTERSTÜCK
SIDELOCK OVER-AND-UNDER GUN 303 SERIES
47
CHARACTERISTICS 49
OVER-AND-UNDER
SHOTGUN 303E Elaborate ejector locks – for the 303, a matter of course. The Kersten cross bolt: classic over-and-under locking mechanism. The tie on the pistol grip: precious detail on the stock of high-
ENGLISH ARABESQUE grade wood.
MEISTERSTÜCK
SIDELOCK OVER-AND-UNDER SHOTGUN 303E
OVER AND UNDER SHOTGUN 303E: sidelocks with V-springs and concealed leaver for tool-less detach form the receiver | Kersten cross
bolt with double conventional bottom bite | double trigger with an excellent characteristic | front trigger articulated | optional selective single
trigger | manual trigger safety with intercepting safety sear | hammer ejectors with V-springs | engraving English arabesquese | highly figured
luxury grade walnut, pistol grip or English styled stock | handcrafted stocks to individual specifications | three-piece forearm for a slim line |
optional pairs
CALIBER: 12/76 and 20/76 CHOKE: 1/4-1/2 (steel-shot proofed), 1/4-3/4, 1/2-1/1 BARREL-LENGTH: 71 cm (cal. 12), 68 cm (cal. 20) OVERALL
LENGTH: app. 114 cm (cal. 12), app. 111 cm (cal. 20) WEIGHT: app. 3,2 kg WOODCLASS: basic wood class 7
MEISTERSTÜCK
OVER-AND-UNDER COMBINATION GUN 313E | OVER-AND-UNDER RIFLE 323E
OVER-AND-UNDER CLASSICS 53
55
CHARACTERISTICS 57
OVER-AND-UNDER
SHOTGUN 2003C Precision detail for all 2000 series guns: single selective trigger. The over-and-under shotguns with multi-chokes, as standard. The All options: multi-chokes for the 2000 o/u shotguns.
JAGD DESIGN over-and-under rifles are equipped with muzzle adjustment.
MEISTERSTÜCK
OVER-AND-UNDER SHOTGUN 2000C
OVER AND UNDER SHOTGUN 2000C: modified Anson & Deeley locks in steel receiver | Kersten cross bolt | selective single trigger,
adjustable in the length | manual safety with intercepting safety sear | disconnectable ejectors | engraving English arabesque | stock with pistol
grip and cheek piece (other stock available) | interchangeable chokes steel-shot proofed (2 chokes included)
CALIBER: 12/76 or 20/76 CHOKE: 1/4-1/2 (steel-shot proofed), 1/4-3/4, 1/2-1/1 BARREL LENGTH: 71 cm (cal. 12), 68 cm (cal. 20) OVERALL
LENGTH: app. 112 cm (cal. 12), app. 109 cm (cal. 20) WEIGHT: app. 3,1 kg WOOD CLASS: basic wood class 2
MEISTERSTÜCK
OVER-AND-UNDER SHOTGUN 2001C
OVER AND UNDER SHOTGUN 2001C: modified Anson-Deeley locks in steel receiver | Kers-
ten cross bolt | selective single trigger, adjustable in the length | manual safety with intercepting
safety sear | disconnectable ejectors | game scene engraving Jagd | stock with pistol grip and
cheek piece (other stock available) | interchangeable chokes steel-shot proofed (2 chokes included)
CALIBER: 12/76 or 20/76 CHOKE: 1/4-1/2 (steel-shot proofed), 1/4-3/4, 1/2-1/1 BARREL LENGTH: OVER-AND-UNDER SHOTGUN 2001C
71 cm (cal. 12), 68 cm (cal. 20) OVERALL LENGTH: app. 112 cm (cal. 12), app. 109 cm (cal. 20) PRINCE OF WALES PISTOL GRIP | THREE-PIECE FORARM
WEIGHT: app. 3,1 kg WOOD CLASS: basic wood class 4
MEISTERSTÜCK
OVER-AND-UNDER SHOTGUN 2002C
OVER AND UNDER SHOTGUN 2002C: modified Anson & Deeley locks in steel receiver |
Kersten cross bolt | selective single trigger, adjustable in the length | Manual safety with in-
tercepting safety sear | disconnectable ejectors | game scene engraving Jagd | Stock with pistol
grip and cheek piece (other stock available) | three-piece forearm | interchangeable chokes steel-
shot proofed (2 chokes included)
CALIBER: 12/76 or 20/76 CHOKE: 1/4-1/2 (steel-shot proofed), 1/4-3/4, 1/2-1/1 BARREL OVER-AND-UNDER SHOTGUN 2002C
LENGTH: 71 cm (cal. 12), 68 cm (cal. 20) OVERALL LENGTH: app. 112 cm (cal. 12), app. 109 cm CUSTOM MADE | COLOUR CASE HARDEND
(cal. 20) WEIGHT: app. 3,1 kg WOOD CLASS: basic wood class 5 AND GOLD INLAY | WOODCLASS 8
MEISTERSTÜCK
OVER-AND-UNDER SHOTGUN 2003C
OVER AND UNDER SHOTGUN 2003C: steel receiver | detachable Sidelocks with compression springs | Kersten cross bolt | double
trigger with an excellent characteristic – typical for side locks | manual safety with intercepting safety sear | disconnectable ejectors | game scene
engraving Jagd | highly figured luxury grade walnut, pistol grip and cheeck | three-piece forearm for a slim line | interchangeable chokes (steel-
shot proofed)
CALIBER: 12/76 CHOKE: 1/4-1/2 (steel-shot proofed), 1/4-3/4, 1/2-1/1 BARREL LENGTH: 71 cm (cal. 12) OVERALL LENGTH: app. 112 cm (cal.12)
WEIGHT: app. 3,1 kg WOOD CLASS: basic wood class 6
MEISTERSTÜCK
OVER-AND-UNDER COMBINATION GUNS 2010D I 2011D I 2012D OVER-AND-UNDER DOUBLE RIFLE 2020D I 2021D I 2022D
HUNTING GROUND
The over-and-under combination rifle/shotgun is a patented universal gun for well mixed hunting grounds. The 2010D has its roots The over-and-under double rifle 2000 series are fast-action and precise rifles – classical driven hunt specialists. Merkel has further
way back in the beginning of the previous century. At the time it was considered to be a robust tool with no airs and graces – but refined the characteristics of the gun with a combination of various details. The single trigger allows a rapid second shot. The Merkel Duo
with all sorts of technical finesses. A further one was the Duo manual cocking system – this is what the “D” signifies in the model manual cocking system combines high-level safety when carrying the decocked gun with the option of quick reloading and shoot-
designation. These combination guns are manual cocking guns before the first shot is fired: the gun can be decocked and safely ing without further cocking. The set trigger finally comes into operation when the precision shot is fired from the high seat. All this,
carried until just before the shot. If the gun is immediately reloaded, the rifle becomes a classical self-cocking gun and rapid follow- with an elegance and responsiveness which has been the trademark of Merkel rifles for more than a century. The over-and-under rifle
ing shots are possible without recocking. If no shot is fired, the lock can simply be decocked again. The over-and-under combinations models varies in wood grade and long side plates.
gun models varies in wood grade and long side plates.
OVER-AND-UNDER COMBINATION GUN 2010D I 2011D I 2012D: modified Anson & Deeley locks in steel receiver | Kersten cross bolt | OVER AND UNDER RIFLE 2022D | 2021D | 2022D: modified Anson & Deeley locks | rugged steel action | Kersten cross
selective single trigger, adjustable in the length I manual safety with intercepting safety sear I disconnectable ejectors |pistol grip, cheekpiece bolt | non selective single trigger, with set trigger | manual safety with intercepting safety sear | with ejectors | pistol grip, cheek-
and hogsback comb I picture shows a prepared swing mount piece and hogsback comb | horizontal and vertical muzzle adjustment | picture shows a prepared claw mount
CALIBER: 6,5x57R, 7x57R, 7x65R, .308 Win., .30-06, .30R Blaser, 8x57IRS, 9,3x74R SHOTGUN CALIBER: 12/76, 20/76 BARREL LENGTH: CALIBER: 7x57R, 7x65R, .30-06, .30R Blaser, 8x57IRS, 9,3x74R BARREL LENGTH: 60 cm OVERAL LENGTH: 101 cm WEIGHT: app. 3,5 kg
60 cm OVERAL LENGTH: app. 101 cm WEIGHT: app. 3,4 kg WOOD CLASS: basic wood class 2 WOOD CLASS: basic wood class 2
MEISTERSTÜCK
SIDE-BY-SIDE GUNS 69
SIDE-BY-SIDE GUNS
SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUN SIDE-BY-SIDE COMBINATION GUN
A passion for side-by-side guns – an early poster from the gun manufactory of the Merkel brothers. SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLE SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLE WITH MUZZLE ADJUSTMENT
MEISTERSTÜCK
SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUNS
71
SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUNS
SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUN 60E
CUSTOM MODEL I SILVER INLAYS I BARREL ENGRAVING
MEISTERSTÜCK
SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUNS
CHARACTERISTICS 73
SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUNS
Simply beautiful, simply good: Anson & Deeley locks. For fine side-by-side guns: detachable V-spring sidelocks. Greener style cross bolt with double bottom bite.
SIDE-BY-SIDE
SHOTGUN 65E
GAME SCENE
JAGD DESIGN Bird's eye view: unsurpassed slim-line aesthetic. Double trigger as standard – with optional single trigger. Handsome stock: fine checkered butt plate for the 45E and 65E.
MEISTERSTÜCK
SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUN 40E
SWINGING ALONG 75
SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUNS
The 40E is the basis Meisterstück of the
side-by-side shotgun range. Light and
elegant, it sets the standard in terms of
responsiveness. As with all Meisterstücks,
custom-made stocks are optional with
the 40E – but Merkel 40E standard
stocks also have that made-to-measure
feel. The shotguns are perfectly balanced
when swinging and have a comfortable
recoil. Equipped with totally reliable
Anson & Deeley locks.
SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUN 40E
MODEL ARABESQUE | WOOD CLASS 3
SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUN 40E: Anson & Deeley locks | steel action | Greener-style cross
bolt and double bottom bite | double trigger, optional single trigger | automatic safety |
with ejectors | pistol grip and cheek piece
CALIBER: 12/76 , 20/76 CHOKE: 1/4 - 1/2 (steel-shot proofed), 1/4 - 3/4, 1/2 - 1/1 BARREL
LENGTH: 71 cm (cal. 12), 68 cm (cal. 20) OVERALL LENGTH: app. 113 cm (cal. 12), 110 cm (cal. SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUN 40E
20) WEIGHT: app. 2,8 kg WOOD CLASS: basic wood class 2 CUSTOM MODEL | WOOD CLASS 5
MEISTERSTÜCK
SIDELOCK SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUN 60E
SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUNS
This functional Meisterstück is the col-
lector’s piece among the shotguns.
Special feature: sidelocks made in Suhl
by Merkel combine precision engineer-
ing with the explosive power of the
intricately made V-springs – gems of
the gunmakers art. The pay-back with
these steel-propelled masterpieces is
minimum shot development times and
the fascination of detachable, refined
sidelocks. Wood and steel are master-
fully combined to form the whole unit. SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUN 60E
The overall impression is enhanced by GAME SCENE "JAGD" MODEL
the hand rubbed oil finish, which adds
an additional lustre to the stock.
CALIBER: 12/76, 20/76 CHOKE: 1/4 - 1/2 (steel-shot proofed), 1/4 - 3/4, 1/2 - 1/1 BARREL
LENGTH: 71 cm (cal. 12), 68 cm (cal. 20) OVERALL LENGTH: app. 113 cm (cal. 12), app. 110 cm SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUN 60E
(cal. 20) WEIGHT: app. 3,1 kg (cal. 12), app. 2,8 kg (cal. 20) WOOD CLASS: basic wood class 5 CUSTOM MODEL | ENGLISH ARABESQUE | ENGLISH STOCK | WOOD CLASS 6
MEISTERSTÜCK
SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUN 45E
SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUNS
The 45E side-by-side shotgun combines Suhl quality and precision with English style – in the stock as well as in the metal surfaces.
English stock finished with fine hand-cut checkering at the butt plate and monogram plate in silver. The steel action is grey nitrated – SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUN 45E
as are the trigger guard, locking lever and safety slide. GAME SCENE "JAGD" MODEL
SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUN 45E: Anson & Deeley locks | steel action | Greener-style cross bolt and double bottom bite | double trigger |
automatic safety | with ejectors | English stock
CALIBER: 12/76, 20/76 CHOKE: 1/4 - 1/2 (steel-shot proofed), 1/4 - 3/4, 1/2 - 1/1 BARREL LENGTH: 71 cm (cal. 12), 68 cm (cal. 20) OVERALL
LENGTH: app. 113 cm (cal. 12), 110 cm (cal. 20) WEIGHT: app. 2,8 kg WOOD CLASS: basic wood class 4
MEISTERSTÜCK
SIDELOCK SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUN 65E
BRITISH BEAUTY 81
SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUNS
The sidelocks make the 65E side-by-side shotgun even more elegant than its sister, the 45E with the boxlock. Otherwise this shot-
gun is also made in the English style: the steel action assembly is in discreet grey nitrate – as are the trigger guard, locking lever and
safety slide. English stock with hand-cut checkering at the butt plate. The selected wood enhances the elegant overall impression.
Removable sidelocks and monogram plate are also features of this refined shotgun – British beauty. SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUN 65E
GAME SCENE "JAGD" MODEL
SIDE-BY-SIDE SHOTGUN 65E: detachable sidelocks | steel action | Greener-style cross bolt and double bottom bite | excellent double
trigger | automatic safety with intercepting safety sear | with ejectors | English stock
CALIBER: 12/76, 20/76 CHOKE: 1/4 - 1/2 (steel-shot proofed), 1/4 - 3/4, 1/2 - 1/1 BARREL LENGTH: 71 cm (cal. 12), 68 cm (cal. 20) OVERALL
LENGTH: app. 113 cm (cal. 12), app. 110 cm (cal. 20) WEIGHT: app. 3,1 kg (cal. 12), app. 2,8 kg (cal. 20) WOOD CLASS: basic wood class 5
MEISTERSTÜCK
COMBINATION GUN 240 I SIDELOCK COMBINATION GUN 260
SIDE-BY-SIDE COMBINATION
The rifle/shotgun with its combination
of shot and bullet is a traditional form
of gun in European hunting culture.
Combinations were the first combined
hunting guns, offering a versatility to
mach the diversity of game on the old
continent. Not only hunting enthusiasts
value this gun: this Meisterstück ena-
bles professionals to use interchange-
able barrels. With the option of con-
version to a side-by-side shotgun or a
side-by-side rifle, this hunting gun is an COMBINATION GUN 240
all-rounder. The exclusive features of GAME SCENE "JAGD" MODEL
the 40E and 60E are also incorporated
in the combination of this series. Both
have a double trigger with forward set
trigger.
COMBINATION RIFLE/SHOTGUN 260: Technical specifications the same as the Combi- COMBINATION GUN 260
nation 240, except removeable sidelocks and wood class starts from class 5 GAME SCENE "JAGD" MODEL
MEISTERSTÜCK
SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLES
85
SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLES
SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLE 160
GAME SCENE "JAGD" MODEL
MEISTERSTÜCK
SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLES
CHARACTERISTICS 87
SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLES
Simply beautiful, simply good: Anson & Deeley locks. V-springs in the sidelock: powerful energy storage system. Greener style cross bolt with double bottom bite.
SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLES
A special offer for aficionados of soldered barrel sets: classically designed Merkel side-by-side rifles. The soldered barrels and the
adapted 20 calibre receiver ensure an agreeable recoil due to the greater weight. Side-by-side shotgun barrels of calibre 20/76
and rifle/shotgun barrels are available as interchangeable barrel options. The forward trigger has a set prepared base for the swing
mount,; thus the side-by-side rifle also excels with the precision shot. That means an extended range of use for this Meisterstück. The SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLE 140
pivot mount, which is a standard fixture, enables flexible use of different scopes. Driven hunt sight, as standard. GAME SCENE "JAGD" MODEL
SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLE 140: Anson & Deeley locks | steel action | Greener-style cross bolt and double bottom bite | double trigger with front
set trigger, optional single trigger | automatic trigger safety | optional with ejectors | hard soldered barrels with muzzle adjustment, horizontal
and vertical | engraving English arabesque or game scene "Jagd" | pistol grip, cheek piece and hogback comb | rubber butt plate
CALIBER: 7x65R, .30-06, .30R Blaser, 8x57IRS, 9,3x74R BARREL LENGTH: 60 cm OVERALL LENGTH: app. 102 cm WEIGHT: app. 3,4 kg
WOOD CLASS: basic wood class 4
MEISTERSTÜCK
SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLE 141
SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLES
The 141 model is a variation of the 140
side-by-side rifle. The particularly nar-
row receiver and the short barrels make
this gun one of the lightest side-by-side
rifles in the world. The option of verti-
cal and horizontal muzzle adjustment
facilitates retrofitting a scope or chang-
ing to ammunition with a different load
or bullet weight. The rifle is prepared
for the fitting of a pivot mount; a driven
hunt sight is supplied as standard. This SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLE 141
compact action is the result of masterly MODEL ARABESQUE
gunmaking expertise – and rewards
future owners with an exceptionally slim
and responsive hunting gun.
SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLE 141: Anson & Deeley locks | steel action | Greener-style cross bolt
and double bottom bite | double trigger with front set trigger, optional single trigger | auto-
matic trigger safety | optional with ejectors | hard soldered barrels with muzzle adjustment, ho-
rizontal and vertical | engraving English arabesque or game scene "Jagd" | pistol grip, cheek
piece and hogback comb | rubber butt plate
CALIBER: 7x65R, .30-06, .30R Blaser, 8x57IRS, 9,3x74R BARREL LENGTH: 55 cm OVERALL SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLE 141
LENGTH: app. 97 cm WEIGHT: app. 3,0 kg WOOD CLASS: basic wood class 4 CUSTOM MODEL WITH OUT CHEEK PIECE
MEISTERSTÜCK
SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLE 160
SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLES
The side-by-side rifle with the finest side-
locks stands out in terms of technology
and aesthetics. The locks work with
V-springs, which guarantees short shot
development times. The steel surfaces
provide plenty of space for decorative
illustration at the hands of experienced
engravers. Precision shooting from the
high seat is facilitated by the set trig-
ger on the forward trigger blade. The
classical sidelocks of the side-by-side SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLE 160
rifle make for excellent trigger pull. The MODEL ARABESQUE
sidelocks can be removed without tools
– for cleaning or just to appreciate the
workmanship.
SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLE 160: removeable V-spring sidelocks with intercepting sear | steel
action | Greener-style cross bolt and double bottom bite | excellent double trigger with front set
trigger | optional with ejectors | pistol grip, cheek piece and hogback comb | rubber butt plate
CALIBER: 7x65R, .30-06, .30R Blaser, 8x57IRS, 9,3x74R BARREL LENGTH: app. 60 cm
OVERALL LENGTH: app. 102 cm WEIGHT: app. 3,4 kg WOOD CLASS: basic wood class 5 SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLE 160
GAME SCENE "JAGD" MODEL
MEISTERSTÜCK
SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLE 161
SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLES
This gun is the sidelock version of the
141 side-by-side rifle. It combines the
typical characteristics of a timeless
sidelock rifle with impressive elegance
and responsiveness. The refined transi-
tions between steel and stock signalise
a high proportion of handcraft. Again,
short barrels are used, combined with
a driven hunt sight and an a prepared
base for swing mounts. The horizon-
tal and vertical muzzle adjustment by SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLE 161
means of slot wedges is the sort of MODEL ARABESQUE
handcrafted work of art that you can
only find at Merkel.
SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLE 161: removeable V-spring sidelocks with intercepting sear | steel
action | Greener-style cross bolt and double bottom bite | excellent double trigger with front
set trigger | automatic trigger safety | optional with ejectors | pistol grip, cheek piece and
hogback comb | rubber butt plate
CALIBER: 7x65R, .30-06, .30R Blaser, 8x57IRS, 9,3x74R BARREL LENGTH: 55 cm OVERALL SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLE 161
LENGTH: app. 97 cm WEIGHT: app. 3,0 kg WOOD CLASS: 5 GAME SCENE "JAGD" MODEL
MEISTERSTÜCK
SAFARI SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLES
97
CHARACTERISTICS 99
SAFARI SIDE-BY-SIDE
RIFLE 140AE
CUSTOM MODEL The hinged trigger prevents injury to the trigger finger. Express sight with sight leaf: shooting at variable distances. Power in form: muzzle silhouette of the large calibre Africa gun.
MEISTERSTÜCK
SAFARI SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLE 140AE
SAFARI SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLE 140AE: Anson & Deeley locks | steel action | Greener-
style cross bolt and double bottom bite | double trigger with articulated front trigger | manual
safety with intercepting sears | with ejectors | African express sight | pistol grip, cheek piece
and straight stock | rubber recoil pad
CALIBER: .375 H&H Mag., .416 Rigby, .470 N. E., .500 N.E. BARREL LENGTH: 60 cm OVERALL
LENGTH: app. 102 cm WEIGHT: app. 4,6 kg WOOD CLASS: 4 to 7 SAFARI SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLE 140AE
MODEL ARABESQUE | WOODCLASS 5
MEISTERSTÜCK
SAFARI SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLE 160AE
SAFARI SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLE 160AE: removeable V-spring sidelocks with intercepting sear
| steel action | Greener-style cross bolt and double bottom bite | excellent double trigger with
articulated front trigger | manual safety with intercepting sears | with ejectors | Safari express
sight | pistol grip, cheek piece and straight stock | rubber recoil pad
CALIBER: .375 H&H Mag., .416 Rigby, .470 N. E., .500 N.E. BARREL LENGTH: 60 cm
OVERALL LENGTH: app. 102 cm WEIGHT: app. 4,6 kg WOOD CLASS: from 5 to 7 SAFARI SIDE-BY-SIDE RIFLE 160AE
GAME SCENE "JAGD" MODEL
MEISTERSTÜCK
DECORATIVE STANDARDS
GRAVUR-EXEMPEL
Arabesque engraving on a Anson & Deeley gun. Game scene "JAGD" engraving on a Anson & Deeley shotgun. Game scene "JAGD" engraving on a Anson & Deeley rifle.
SIDE-BY-SIDE
SHOTGUN 45E
GAME SCENE
"JAGD" MODEL Arabesque engraving on a sidelock gun. Game scene "JAGD" engraving on a sidelock shotgun. Game scene "JAGD" engraving on a sidelock rifle.
MEISTERSTÜCK
DRILLINGS 107
DRILLINGS
DRILLING DOUBLE RIFLE DRILLING BERGSTUTZEN DRILLING
Company founder Gebhard Merkel always had a heart for drillings – the universal gun was manufactured in the Merkel manufactory SHOTGUN DRILLING RIFLE DRILLING
from the beginning.
MEISTERSTÜCK
DRILLINGS
109
DRILLINGS
DOUBLE RIFLE DRILLING 961 LS
CUSTOM MODEL
MEISTERSTÜCK
DRILLINGS
DRILLINGS
EXECUTION 96:
EXECUTION 961:
Execution 96 Execution 96 Execution 96
In this execution all three locks of the drilling are cocked auto- Trigger/function: Trigger/function: Trigger/function:
matically with breaking down gun. When the safety slide is in 1. trigger * right shotgun 1. trigger * right rifle barrel 1. trigger * right rifle barrel (large)
the rear position both triggers are safe. In firing position (in the barrel 2. trigger left rifle barrel 2. trigger left rifle barrel (small)
front) the drilling is ready to fire and the front trigger works as 2. trigger left shotgun barrel cocking slide: 1. trigger lower cocking slide 1. trigger lower
single trigger for the locks of the right and the left upper barrels. cocking slide: 1. trigger * shotgun barrel shotgun barrel
The rear trigger exclusively operates the lock of the lower barrel. lower rifle barrel
Execution 961 Execution 961 Execution 961
Execution 96: Execution 961: L = slim 28 gauge receiver S = long side plates
trigger system with set trigger/s for the high seat hunt fast trigger system with single trigger for the driven hunt K = cocking slide D = double set trigger
Three-position cocking slide: safety and manual cocking
system in one.
MEISTERSTÜCK
DRILLING 96K | 96KS
DRILLINGS
The basis Merkel drilling is built around
the 96K three-lock system; this gun is
the all-rounder in the small game hunting
ground. The system is a technical deli-
cacy, which makes drillings as elegant
as they are efficient. The Blitz locks are
controlled via the three-position cocking
slide on the stock tang. The front
trigger is fitted with a set trigger for the
precision shot. Depending on the position
of the cocking slide, the right barrel or
lower barrel can be fired in the engaged DRILLING 96K
position. The 96KS version is fitted with CUSTOM MODEL COLOUR CASE HARDENED | WOOD CLASS 5
long side plates.
DRILLING 96K | 96KS: three lock system (Blitz locks) with manual cocking slide | steel
receiver | Greener style cross bolt and double bottom bite | double trigger with set trigger |
pistol grip; cheek piece and hogsback comb | rubber butt plate
SHOTGUN CALIBER: 12/76, 20/76 RIFLE CALIBER: .223 Rem., 243. Win., 7x57R, 7x65R, .308
Win., .30R Blaser, .30-06, 8x57IRS, 9,3x74R CHOKE: improved cylinder - 1/2 (steel-shot proofed),
1/4 - 3/4, 1/2 - 1/1 BARREL LENGTH: cal. 12 (55 cm and 60 cm), cal. 20 (55 cm) OVERALL
LENGTH: 98 cm or 103 cm WEIGHT: app. 3,1 kg WOOD CLASS: basic wood class 2 DRILLING 96KS
GAME SCENE "JAGD" MODEL | WOOD CLASS 5
MEISTERSTÜCK
DOUBLE RIFLE DRILLING 961L | 961LS | 96L | 96LS
DRILLINGS
The new development of a particularly
slim drilling receiver (28 caliber) makes
the current generation of Merkel drill-
ings ever lighter and more elegant.
One version of this light species is the
double rifle drilling 961L, with a driven
hunt trigger. The front trigger serves as
a single trigger for the two upper rifle
barrels. This enables a rapid second
shot without the need to change grip.
The rear trigger is reserved for the
lower shotgun barrel. The 96LS and DOUBLE RIFLE DRILLING 961L
961LS versions are fitted with long side MODEL ARABESQUE
plates.
DOUBLE RIFLE DRILLING 961L/ 961LS: real three lock system (Blitz locks) with safety
slide | steel receiver | Greener style cross bolt and double bottom bite | double trigger with
single trigger in the front | pistol grip, cheek piece and hogsback comb | rubber butt plate
DOUBLE RIFLE DRILLING 96L / 96LS: specification as 96K/ 96KS, manual cocking for the
lower shotgun barrel.
SHOTGUN CALIBER: 20/76 CHOKE: 1/2 (steel-shot proofed) RIFLE CALIBER: .30-06, .30R Blaser, DOUBLE RIFLE DRILLING 961LS
8x57IRS, 9,3x74R BARREL LENGTH: 55 cm OVERALL LENGTH: app. 98 cm WEIGHT: app. 3,2 kg CUSTOM MODEL | WOOD CLASS 8
WOOD CLASS: basic wood class 4
MEISTERSTÜCK
BERGSTUTZEN DRILLING 96LD | 96LDS
DRILLINGS
The Bergstutzen drilling is a typical gun used on a high seat for a single shot. With two rifle barrels of different caliber and one shot-
gun barrel, this drilling is a gun that offers every opportunity to the hunter, whatever game he encounters in the glade. The set trigger
on both triggers enables a precision shot with both rifle barrels. Die 96LDS is fitted with long side plates (no illustration). BERGSTUTZEN DRILLING 96LD
GAME SCENE "JAGD" MODEL
BERGSTUTZEN DRILLING 96LD | 96LDS: three lock system (Blitz locks) with manual cocking | steel receiver | Greener style cross bolt and
double bottom bite | double trigger with set trigger in both triggers | pistol grip; cheek piece and hogsback comb | rubber butt plate
SHOTGUN CALIBER: 20/76 LARGE CALIBER: .30-06, .30R Blaser, 8x57IRS, 9,3x74R SMALL CALIBER: 5,6 x 52R, .222 Rem CHOKE: 1/2 steel-
shot proofed BARREL LENGTH: 55 cm OVERALL LENGTH: app. 98 cm WEIGHT: app. 3,3 kg WOOD CLASS: basic wood class 4
MEM
MEM 119
Modern hunting guns: cutting edge technology with the genes of the Suhl gunmaking
art: this is MEM. The acronym stands for Merkel Engineered Manufacturing and also
alludes to the “culture gene” mem. The floral motif, an illustration of nature, symbol-
ises this category of the Merkel brand.
MEM
MEM SINGLE SHOT RIFLES 121
MEM
123
MEM
CHARACTERISTICS 125
MEM
FOR DEERSTALKING AND THE MOUNTAINS 127
SINGLE SHOT RIFLE K3: KALIBER: .243 Win., 6,5x57R, 6,5x65R, .270 Win., 7x57R, 7x65R, .300
Win. Mag., .308 Win., .30-06, .30R Blaser, 7mm Rem. Mag., 8x57IRS, 9,3x74R BARREL LENGTH: SINGLE SHOT RIFLE STUTZEN K3
60 cm OVERALL LENGTH: app. 101 cm WEIGHT: app. 2,5 kg WOOD CLASS: basic wood class 2 GAME SCENE “JAGD“ MODEL | WOOD CLASS 4
SINGLE SHOT RIFLE K3 STUTZEN: CALIBER: .7x57R, 7x65R, .308 Win., .30-06, .30R Blaser,
8x57 IRS, 9,3x74R BARREL LENGTH: 50 cm OVERALL LENGTH: app. 91 cm WEIGHT: app. 2,4 kg
WOOD CLASS: basic wood class 4
SINGLE SHOT RIFLE K4
MEM
FLORSTEDT‘S CARPATHIAN RIFLE 129
CALIBER: 6,5x65R, 7x65R, .300 Win. Mag., .308 Win., .30-06, .30R Blaser, 7mm Rem. Mag.,
8x57IRS BARREL LENGTH: 60 cm OVERALL LENGTH: app. 101 cm WEIGHT: app. 2,8 kg
WOOD CLASS: basic wood class 4
B CLASS OVER-AND-UNDER GUNS
MEM
131
BOCKBÜCHSFLINTEN
OVER-AND-UNDER GUNS
OVER-AND-UNDER COMBINATION GUN B3
SUHL DESIGN
B CLASS OVER-AND-UNDER GUNS
MEM
CHARACTERISTICS 133
OVER-AND-UNDER GUNS
Rugged Jäger tilted block breech. Safe manual cocking system: decocked until just before the shot. The forearm of the B3 has the typical Merkel Schnabel.
OVER-AND-UNDER
COMBINATON GUN B3
ERFURT DESIGN Versatile and flexible: interchangeable barrels for the B4. Always the identical point of impact: Suhl tilt-up mount.
B3 OVER-AND-UNDER COMBINATION GUN
MEM
COMBINED GUNS WITH DOUBLE LOCKS 135
OVER-AND-UNDER GUNS
Versatile and safe in practice: the B3
is a modern over-and-under combina-
tion rifle/shotgun of the MEM category
with a double lock and manual cocking
system. The tilted block breech, top
sear levers and safety catches are Suhl
quality products, and give this hunting
gun a high level of safety in the field.
The free floating cold forged rifle barrel
from the Merkel manufactory guaran-
tees precision; the shotgun barrel is
steel shot capable, in line with current
OVER-AND-UNDER COMBINATION GUN B3
trends. Additional safety: when opening
SUHL DESIGN | WOOD CLASS 9
the breech the locks are automatically
decocked. The B class shows its Suhl
roots in its details: traditional stock,
the side plates are fastened by means
of the prism technique. The forearm
is rounded off with the typical Merkel
snobble-tip. Interchangeable over-
and-under double rifle barrels are an
optional extra. OVER-AND-UNDER COMBINATION GUN B3: two lock hand cocking system | with
safety automatic - while opening it decocked the gun | rugged Jäger tilted block breech |
barrel adjustment | double trigger with front set trigger | pistol grip, bavarian cheek piece and
hogsback comb | rubber butt plate
SHOTGUN CALIBER: 12/76, 20/76 CHOKE: 1/2 (steel-shot proofed) RIFLE CALIBER: .223
Rem., .243 Win., 6,5x57R, 7x57R, 7x65R, .308Win, .30-06, .30R Blaser, 8x57IRS, 9,3x74R BARREL OVER-AND-UNDER COMBINATION GUN B3
LENGTH: 60 cm OVERALL LENGTH: app. 102 cm WEIGHT: app. 3,1 kg WOOD CLASS: basic ERFURT DESIGN | WOOD CLASS 7
wood class 2
B4 OVER-AND-UNDER COMBINATION GUN
MEM
FINELY TUNED TRIGGER 137
OVER-AND-UNDER GUNS
The B4 over-and-under combination
rifle/shotgun combines precision with
safety. Finely tuned triggers combined
with a single box lock enable high-
precision shooting. The single lock
manual cocking system on the stock
wrist allows the gun to be carried in a
decocked status, and rapidly cocked
when required. The rifle barrel adjust-
ment under the forearm is a technical
delicacy. The high-grade processing
right up to the steel middle barrel rail
OVER-AND-UNDER COMBINATION GUN B4
is characteristic of the gun as a whole.
PREMIUM DESIGN | WOOD CLASS 4
SHOTGUN CALIBER: 12/76, 20/76 CHOKE: - 1/2 (steel-shot proofed) RIFLE CALIBER: .223
Rem., .243 Win., 6,5x57R, 7x57R, 7x65R, .308Win, .30-06, .30R Blaser, 8x57IRS, 9,3x74R BARREL OVER-AND-UNDER COMBINATION GUN B4
LENGTH: 60 cm OVERALL LENGTH: app. 102 cm WEIGHT: app. 3,1 kg WOOD CLASS: CUSTOM MODEL | WOOD CLASS 4
basic wood class 2
B4 BERGSTUTZEN
MEM
TWO RIFLES IN ONE 139
OVER-AND-UNDER GUNS
Two in one: the Bergstutzen is a compact rifle, which combines two precise rifle barrels of different calibre in one gun. Thus the
hunter is well armed for all sorts of hoofed game. Merkel combines the manual cocking system with two finely tuned triggers. The
single lock system guarantees maximum safety – and two fine trigger blades. The calibres of the large and small rifle barrels allow
a variety of combinations. Moreover, over-and-under rifle/shotgun interchangeable barrels can easily be installed retroactively.
A standard feature of the B4 is the adjustable lower barrel, which can be adjusted to the height of the forearm. The barrel adjust- BERGSTUTZEN B4
ment is protected by the forearm with the typical Merkel Schnabel. WEIMAR DESIGN | WOOD CLASS 5
OVER-AND-UNDER BERGSTUTZEN B4: single lock hand-cocking system | with safety automatic - while opening it decocked the gun | rugged
Jäger tilted block breech | barrel adjustment | fine tuned double trigger | pistol grip, bavarian cheek piece and hogback comb | rubber butt plate
LARGE CALIBER: .222 Rem., 5,6x50R Mag., 5,6x52R SMALL CALIBER: 7x57R, 7x65R, .308 Win., .30-06, .30R Blaser, 8x57IRS, 9,3x74R
BARREL LENGTH: 55 cm OVERALL LENGTH: app. 97 cm WEIGHT: app. 3,3 kg WOOD CLASS: basic wood class 2
B3 OVER-AND-UNDER RIFLE
MEM
DRIVEN HUNT SPECIALISTS 141
OVER-AND-UNDER GUNS
The over-and-under is the classic
Merkel hunting gun. The B3 is specially
designed for the driven hunt and the
rapid second shot. The features include
double locks, manual cocking system,
and adjustable single trigger. Merkel
has brought the practical features of
this MEM development up to the tech-
nically highest level. The technology is
combined with the high-strength Suhl
tilted block breech. The slim barrel set
is constructed without an upper tube, OVER-AND-UNDER RIFLE B3
which saves on weight; the lower barrel GAME SCENE “JAGD“ MODEL
is free floating. The muzzle adjustment
is protected by the forearm. The lines
of this over-and-under rifle follow the
Suhl tradition: from the Schnabel on the
forearm to the curved side of the stock.
OVER-AND-UNDER RIFLE B3: double lock hand cocking system | safety automatic - gun
automatically decocks while opening | detachable Jäger tilted block breech | bottom barrel free
loating | adjustable in windage and elevation | single trigger- non selective, optional with double
rigger with set trigger | pistol grip, bavarian cheek piece and hogsback comb | rubber recoil pad
CALIBER: .30-06, .30R Blaser, 8x57IRS, 9,3x74R BARREL LENGTH: 55 cm OVERALL LENGTH: OVER-AND-UNDER RIFLE B3
app. 97 cm WEIGHT: app. 3,2 kg WOOD CLASS: basic wood class 4 PREMIUM DESIGN WITH SIDE PLATES
DEKORATIVE STANDARDS
MEM
ENGRAVING 143
EXAMPLES
GRAVUR- EXEMPEL
A rich selection of engraving pattern
styles are available for Merkel MEM guns.
K3 STANDARD
K3 STANDARD: simple arabesques
engraving.
K3 PREMIUM: side plates with simple
arabesque engraving. Side and bottom
engraved with english style arabesque.
K3/K4 JAGD: side plates with game scene B3 OVER-AND-UNDER RIFLE STANDARD: Grey receiver with B3 OVER-AND-UNDER RIFLE PREMIUM: Side plates with simple
engraving different motives. Side and bot- simple engraving. arabesque. Side and bottom engraved with english style arabesque.
tom engraved with english style arabesque.
K3 PREMIUM
K3/K4 JAGD
B3 OVER AND UNDER RIFLE JAGD: Side plates with game scene. B3 OVER AND UNDER RIFLE DE LUXE: Black receiver, side
Different motives. Side and bottom engraved english style arabesque. plates and stock of high grade wood.
OVER-AND-UNDER GUNS
MEM
MEM DE LUXE 145
OVER-AND-UNDER GUNS
JENA DESIGN: ERFURT DESIGN:
Fine handmade engraving, two-animal Long side plates, finely chiselled hunt-
motif on each side, arabesque, oak-leaf ing scenes with up to four animal motifs
or “old German leaf” infill. Engraved on each side and one animal motif on
barrel breech and trigger guard. Walnut the underside of the receiver. Choice of
stock with excellent grain pattern and infill and animals. Fully engraved barrel
fine checkering basic wood class 5. breech and trigger guard. Stock made
of highly figured walnut with fine stock
carving. Basic wood class 6. Silver pistol
grip cap with monogram.
Fine handmade engraving, two-animal Long side plates, elaborate relief en-
motif in relief on each side. Arabesque, graving with up to four animal motifs
oak-leaf or “old German leaf” infill. on each side and one animal motif en-
Choice of infill and animals. Engraved graved on the underside of the receiv-
barrel breech and trigger guard. Stock er. Choice of infill and ornamentation.
finely carved to complement the infill Breech end of barrel fully engraved
style. Selected highly grained walnut with fine gold border; gold-plated trig-
wood, with basic wood class 6. gers. Finely carved stock highly figured
with strongly contrasting grain. Basic
wood class 7. Silver pistol grip cap with
monogram.
MEM
SINGLE BARREL MULTI-LOADER 147
MEM
149
MEM
CHARACTERISTICS 151
MEM
ESPRIT OF THE GUN MAKER 153
SELFLOADING RIFLE SR1: gas selfloading system | solid rotary bolt head with 6 locking
lugs | safety automatic - shot release with locked action only | free floating precision barrel |
driven hunt sight | butt stock with straight stock back | adjustable drop and cast off | rubber
recoil pad
Caliber: .223 Rem., 7x64, .308 Win., .30-06, 8x57IS, 9,3x62, .300 Win. Mag. MAGAZINE: 2 and
5 shots (standard caliber), 2 rounds (Magnum caliber) BARREL LENGTH: 50 cm (Magnum: 51 cm) SEMIAUTOMATIC RIFLE SR1
OVERALL LENGTH app. 106 cm (Magnum: ca. 107 cm) WEIGHT: app. 3,2 kg WOOD CLASS: PREMIUM MODEL | WOOD CLASS 5
basic wood class 1
SR1 KEILER GOLD SEMIAUTOMATIC RIFLE | SR1 JAGD
MEM
PRACTICALLY AESTHETIC 155
SELFLOADING RIFLE SR1: Gas selfloading system | solid rotary bolt head with 6 locking
lugs | safety automatic - shot release with locked action only | free floating precision barrel |
driven hunt sight | butt stock with straight back | adjustable drop and cast off | rubber recoil pad
CALIBER: .223 Rem., 7x64, .308 Win., .30-06, 8x57IS, 9,3x62, .300 Win. Mag. MAGAZINE: 2 and
5 shots (standard caliber), 2 rounds (Magnum caliber) BARREL LENGTH: 50 cm (Magnum: 51 cm) SEMIAUTOMATIC RIFLE SR1
OVERALL LENGTH: ca. 106 cm (Magnum: ca. 107 cm) WEIGHT: ca. 3,2 kg WOOD CLASS: JAGD MODEL
basic wood class 4
BOLT ACTION RIFLE KR1
MEM
157
MEM
CHARACTERISTICS 159
BOLT ACTION
RIFLE KR1 Easy reloading: despite the scope the loading port is free. In your sights: Suhl tilt-up mount for reproducible results. Self-made barrels: barrel versions from the Merkel manufactory.
CUSTOM MODEL
BOLT ACTION RIFLE KR1 STANDARD | KR1 PREMIUM
MEM
PLAIN ELEGANCE 161
BOLT ACTION KR1: Bolt head with six locking lugs with small opening angle | three positi-
on saftey on the tang | combination trigger with set | magazine capacity 3+1 (2+1 for Magnum
caliber) | butt stock with hogsback comb, pistol grip with Bavarian cheeck piece (starting with
Premium design) | rubber recoil pad
CALIBER GROUP Short: .222 Rem., .223 Rem Standard: 6,5x55SE, .243 Win., .270 Win., .308
Win., .30-06, 7x64, 7mm-08 Rem., 8x57IS, 9,3x62 Magnum: 7mm Rem. Mag., .270 WSM,
.300 WSM, .300 Win. Mag., .338 Win. Mag. BARREL LENGTH: 51,5; 56,5; 61,5 cm OVERALL BOLT ACTION KR1
LENGTH: app. 98 cm WEIGHT: app. 2,9 kg WOOD CLASS: basic wood class 2 PREMIUM DESIGN | WOOD CLASS 4
KR1 STUTZEN BOLT ACTION RIFLE | KR1 JAGD
MEM
THE INDIVIDUAL BOLT ACTION RIFLE 163
BOLT ACTION KR1 STUTZEN: Bolt head with six locking lugs with small opening angle |
three position saftey on the tang | combination trigger with set | magazine capacity 3+1 (2+1
for Magnum caliber) | butt stock with hogsback comb, pistol grip with Bavarian cheeck piece
(starting with Premium design) | rubber recoil pad
CALIBER: .243 Win., .308 Win., .30-06, 7x57, 7x64, 8x57IS, 9,3x62 BARREL LENGTH: 51,5 cm
OVERALL LENGTH: 98 cm WEIGHT: app. 2,9 kg WOOD CLASS: basic wood class 4
BOLT ACTION KR1:
BOLT ACTION KR1 JAGD: Specification and caliber according to KR1 Standard JAGD DESIGN | WOOD CLASS 5
KR1 JENA BOLT ACTION RIFLE | KR1 WEIMAR
MEM
FINEST THURINGIA BOLT ACTION RIFLES 165
BOLT ACTION KR1 JENA | WEIMAR: Bolt head with six locking lugs with small opening
angle | three position saftey on the tang | combination trigger with set | magazine capacity
3+1 (2+1 for Magnum caliber) | butt stock with hogsback comb, pistol grip with Bavarian cheeck
piece (starting with Premium design) | rubber recoil pad
CALIBER GROUP Short: .222 Rem., .223 Rem. Standard: 6,5x55SE, .243 Win., .270 Win.,
.308 Win., .30-06, 7x64, 7mm-08 Rem., 8x57IS, 9,3x62 Magnum: 7mm Rem. Mag., .270 WSM,
.300 WSM, .300 Win. Mag., .338 Win. Mag. BARREL LENGTH: 51,5; 56,5; 61,5 cm OVERALL BOLT ACTION KR1:
LENGTH: app. 98 cm WEIGHT: app. 2,9 kg WOOD CLASS: basic wood class 5 WEIMAR DESIGN | WOOD CLASS 6
ENGRAVING
ENGRAVING 167
ENGRAVING
ENGRAVING
Hunting, magic and art have been in- workpiece. This requires a trained eye, plines – decorate Merkel hunting rifles
extricably linked from the beginning. It scriber and steel compasses. The actual to make them unique specimens.
could be that it was hunting that inspired engraving is a metal-shaving technique.
people to make art. And it was art that It is performed with a light hammer and
became the implement of magic during graver. Gravers are fine chisels in vari-
the hunt. Since then works of art have ous thickness with shaped blades and
magically evoked hunting success wooden handles.
which was a necessity of life – special-
ists speak of “symbolic magic”. The workpiece is clamped in 360 de-
gree rotating vice for processing. Fine
The result of the hunt is demonstrated shading is cut with a hand graver, used
and anticipated in symbols. The hunt- without a hammer and driven only by
ers paint the animal on the cave walls, the strength of the engraver. In Ital-
to enchant it, so to speak. Prehistoric ian this graver is called “bulino” – this
Suhl “Bulino“ engraving with chiselled base. Deep relief engraving with vivid game motifs and leaf ornamentation.
men symbolically threw the spear at the gives the name to this art form with the
cave wall paintings and believed their graver.
weapons would hit the animal when the
hunt was for real. Files in various forms and cut levels as
well as abrasive cloth in different grains
The engraving of the rifle emanates round off the range of tools used by the
from the tradition of the symbolic mag- engraver. There is a diversity of other
ic. Two main categories of motifs can ornamentation form around engraving:
be identified: stylised tendrils – called colour case hardening, gold or silver
arabesques. And the naturalistic motifs, inlaying, punching or chasing and inlay-
according to Dürer, the so-called nature ing with various precious materials.
or animal motifs.
Over 15 male and female engravers
The first stage of the engraving work – each one a master of the trade and
is transcribing the outline onto the experienced in all the engraving disci- Decorated pistol grip cap. Ornamental engraving “English Arabesque“. Colour case hardening with gold inlays.
WOOD CLASSES
WOOD CLASSES
Stock wood is a product of nature. The illustrated stocks are representative examples. Variation in colour, grain and wood structure WOOD CLASS 5
within the quality classes are not only unavoidable, rather an expression of individuality.